Here, Cyrus is anointed to free the Jews from exile. In our moment, Israel appears as a modern Cyrus — dismantling the oppressive forces of Iran’s clerical rulers, and in doing so, offering Iranians the chance to return to home, identity, and liberty.

Watch Chris Mitchell's story on the initial Israeli attack on Iran and Efrem Graham's interview with Chris on CBN Newswatch.

A Pivot Point in Iran’s Future?

Echoing the 1978–79 Iranian Revolution — which toppled Shah Pahlavi and brought the Ayatollahs to power — many now wonder if today marks another such pivotal moment. That revolution changed Iran’s course dramatically; today’s crisis might do the same. Social media hints at a revival of Pro-Shah sentiment, mingled with hope for a democratic and peaceful future.

Why This Matters

This moment matters not because of slogans or hashtags, but because it represents a deeper truth: the Persian people—not their theocratic regime—are calling for change. The surge of support for Israel from Iranians both inside and outside the country sends a powerful message that transcends politics. It’s a revival of an ancient bond between Jews and Persians, peoples with shared history and mutual respect. This unlikely alliance is not born out of convenience but out of a shared yearning for freedom and dignity. It’s also a signal to the international community: when a population expresses such visible support for external intervention, perhaps the time has come to take seriously the possibility of a new, democratic Iran.

The Road Ahead

Looking ahead, the path is fraught with danger. The Islamic Republic remains deeply entrenched, and its capacity for brutal retaliation is well known. Any sign of public dissent could trigger severe crackdowns. Yet, in the midst of such risks, there lies a unique opportunity. The current conflict could either tighten the regime’s grip—or fracture it. 

Yet we're seeing signs of hope that some within Iran are willing to risk their lives to, "finish the job:" (@Aminbehroozi1370) "The regime is at its weakest. Let's finish the job. Together, we are stronger than any repressive force." 

This could be Israel's moment to step into history as a liberator, echoing Cyrus the Great, helping to awaken a people, once their friends, from decades of religious dictatorship.

The Isaiah Prophecy (NIV)

“This is what the Lord says to his anointed,     to Cyrus, whose right hand I take hold of to subdue nations before him     and to strip kings of their armor, to open doors before him     so that gates will not be shut: 2 I will go before you     and will level the mountains[a]; I will break down gates of bronze     and cut through bars of iron. 3 I will give you hidden treasures,     riches stored in secret places, so that you may know that I am the Lord,     the God of Israel, who summons you by name.

– Isaiah 45:1-3

Joshua Swanson is editor-in-chief of Worship Leader Magazine. He's also a writer, actor, and executive now living in Israel.

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